Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has unveiled a significant pre-election announcement, increasing the salaries of ASHA and Mamata workers. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services and recognizing the vital contributions of healthcare workers in rural areas.
Under the new measures, ASHA workers will see their monthly honorarium increase from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000. Mamata workers will now receive Rs 600 per delivery, up from the previous Rs 300.
This announcement follows the government’s efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and support those providing essential services. ASHA and Mamata workers play a crucial role in delivering vital healthcare, including maternal and child care, vaccinations, and family planning guidance.
The Chief Minister highlighted the crucial role of these workers in enhancing healthcare in rural regions. The salary increase is designed to boost their morale and improve healthcare service quality across the state.
ASHA workers, who are local women, operate under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM). They are responsible for the care of pregnant women and children, providing information on vaccinations and family planning, spreading health awareness, and managing data and records. Mamata workers are female health workers primarily focused on maternal and child health services within government healthcare facilities.
This recent announcement builds upon other pre-election initiatives, including an increase in pensions for eligible journalists and the formation of a commission for sanitation workers, which will include transgender representation. These strategic decisions aim to address the needs of various segments of the population ahead of the upcoming elections.